Prison spends £10,000 on "body percussion" lessons for inmates

Teaching anger management through music

A prison in Devon is investing nearly £10,000 in a programme that teaches inmates to use their bodies to create music as a way to manage their anger. The "body percussion" lessons, which include stomping feet and clicking fingers, aim to encourage prisoners to channel their emotions in a positive way. HMP Dartmoor, a Category C men's prison, has awarded a year-long contract to Wiltshire firm Kaboom! for this cognitive-based therapy workshop.

Popular tracks include hits by Pharrell Williams and Justin Timberlake

During the lessons, inmates will be using their bodies to create music to popular tracks, such as Pharrell Williams' "Happy" and Justin Timberlake's "Can't Stop the Feeling". The aim is to provide a creative outlet for prisoners to express themselves and manage their emotions through music.

Controversy surrounding the investment

While the investment in the "body percussion" programme has been praised by the Prison Service for its potential to cut crime and protect the public, it has also faced criticism. A recent inspection found that HMP Dartmoor was failing to provide adequate living conditions, education, and work opportunities for inmates. Critics argue that the money could have been better spent on improving these areas of the prison system.

Labour Party criticizes the move

The Labour Party has condemned the investment, stating that the prison system is in "total chaos" and that the move is "laughable" considering the government's failure to keep the public safe. The party also highlighted the high turnover rate of prison officers and the increasing number of assaults in prisons as evidence of the system's failure.

Prison Service defends the investment

The Prison Service, on the other hand, argues that schemes like the "body percussion" programme help to reduce crime, protect the public, and save taxpayer money in the long run. By providing inmates with alternative ways to manage their anger, the hope is that they will be less likely to engage in violent or criminal behavior.